CVE-2024-8589 in AutoCAD
Summary
by MITRE • 10/30/2024
A maliciously crafted SLDPRT file when parsed in odxsw_dll.dll through Autodesk AutoCAD can force a Out-of-Bounds Read vulnerability. A malicious actor can leverage this vulnerability to cause a crash, write sensitive data, or execute arbitrary code in the context of the current process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-8589 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within Autodesk AutoCAD's handling of SLDPRT files through the odxsw_dll.dll component. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and boundary checking when processing specially crafted SLDPRT files that contain malformed data structures. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of software parsing logic and memory management, creating a pathway for adversarial exploitation that can compromise system integrity and confidentiality. The affected component operates within the broader context of computer-aided design software where file processing routines must handle diverse input formats while maintaining robust security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the odxsw_dll.dll library when it attempts to parse SLDPRT file structures. When AutoCAD processes a maliciously crafted SLDPRT file, the parsing routine fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits, allowing an attacker to manipulate memory access patterns. This flaw aligns with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient validation of length of inputs, and specifically manifests as an out-of-bounds memory access condition that can be leveraged for information disclosure or code execution. The vulnerability operates at the application level where the software's file parser does not enforce proper memory access constraints during data structure traversal.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial-of-service scenarios to encompass potential code execution and data compromise within the AutoCAD application context. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can cause the application to crash or more critically, execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user process. This represents a significant threat vector within enterprise environments where AutoCAD is commonly used for design and engineering work, as the vulnerability could be exploited through social engineering tactics such as phishing emails containing malicious SLDPRT attachments. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that CAD files are frequently shared and opened in collaborative environments, making this a persistent risk for organizations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-8589 should focus on immediate software updates from Autodesk as the primary defense mechanism, alongside operational security measures such as restricting file execution permissions and implementing sandboxing techniques for CAD file processing. Organizations should consider deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file access patterns and implement strict file validation protocols before opening any CAD files from untrusted sources. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203, which covers Exploitation for Execution, and T1059, which addresses Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection measures. Additionally, security teams should establish incident response procedures for handling potential exploitation attempts and maintain detailed logs of file processing activities to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts.